Ayariga Slams Afenyo-Markin Over Ofori-Atta’s Continued Absence

Parliament witnessed a heated exchange on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, as the Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, launched a scathing critique of Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin over the unexplained absence of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta.

Ayariga took issue with the Minority’s earlier assurances that Ofori-Atta, who has been summoned by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) over alleged corruption-related offences, would return to Ghana by the end of May after undergoing a medical assessment abroad. As of June 3, no official confirmation has been made regarding Ofori-Atta’s return, prompting fresh scrutiny and political tension.

“He promised this House that he would bring Ken Ofori-Atta in May; we are in June, where is Ken Ofori-Atta?” Ayariga asked pointedly. “He came to this House and made a promise. Mr. Speaker, he should not be heard in this House because when he makes promises, he cannot fulfil them.”

The Majority Leader’s comments suggest growing frustration within the House over the unresolved status of Ofori-Atta’s situation, which has become a flashpoint for partisan debate.

Ayariga further accused the Minority caucus of inconsistency and lack of unity in moments that demand solidarity, referencing their absence at the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) during the detention of NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.

“The Minority wants to appear to stand for something, but when the time comes to show it, they fail to show up,” he said.

The controversy surrounding Ofori-Atta’s absence continues to intensify as public calls grow for transparency and accountability. With the former Finance Minister still out of the country and no new timeline given, pressure is now mounting on the Minority to provide clarity on their earlier assurances and to reaffirm their commitment to upholding the integrity of parliamentary processes.